Who is Your Virtual Assistant?
Entrepreneur Describes Relationship with Virtual Assistant
(Reprinted article from Female Entrepreneur Magazine)

Yesterday, Barbara asked Helena, “Who is your virtual assistant?” “My what?” Helena responded. Barbara said, “Your virtual assistant (VA), an independent contractor who administratively supports an entrepreneur, executive or mobile professional via electronic technology.” “I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Helena said.

Barbara explained, “During the last seven years, a new internet-based industry has emerged. It is called virtual assisting. Virtual assistants are experienced, professional business support providers who work virtually.  Remember how our office staff was so overworked that they were too busy to meet tight deadlines? I don’t have that problem anymore. My deadlines are met and my VA is only one telephone call or email away.”

“She saves me time, money, is efficient, and helps grow my business, freeing me to handle duties I should concentrate on. My VA takes care of my paperwork, handles all my records, monitors and answers email, coordinates travel, meetings and events, maintains my database and calendar, updated my website and even redesigned and maintains my company e-zine. In addition, this VA allows me to dictate letters, reports, anything, 24/7, and has the work back within 12 hours. And, guess what? Those are just some of the things she can do. Imagine, I’m here in LA and she’s in Baltimore.

“I can’t believe you’ve hired someone living on the other side of the country. Have you lost your mind?” asked Helena. “Of course not,” Barbara replied. “It’s a win-win situation, and I’ve got a great independent business owner assisting me. I gave up my brick and mortar office, am not providing space or equipment, she only works when I need her and I do not pay benefits. Also, she has an enormous amount of experience and is exceptionally computer savvy.”

“Wait a minute,” said Helena. “To have someone this proficient, you must pay a lot.” “It’s how you value your time,” responded Barbara. “You know I charge $200.00 an hour and even sometimes more for my services.” “So,” said Helena. Barbara responded, “If I continued to handle all my business support functions, I’d eventually get bogged down in ‘paperwork’ and not have time to enjoy my business or family.”

Besides, since I was my own admin support, it cost me the same $200.00 an hour. I pay my VA $50.00 an hour, save $150.00, and use those extra hours to service my clients and prospect for new business. $50.00 an hour really isn’t much, if you factor in no benefits, equipment, supplies, or office overhead. Like I said, a win-win situation. And, I have a highly trained, professional specialist working with me. We are a team."

Here’s a typical cost breakdown: 

 “Now that you have explained it, I believe it’s a great idea. I have lots of tasks she can complete. I’ll use my time to develop the new promotional campaign I’ve been thinking about. I’ll give her all that paperwork I’ve been dying to complete but just haven’t gotten around to. My website needs revamping. You said she can do that, too?” asked Helena. “Sure can,” said Barbara.

“Wait, how do I find a virtual assistant?” asked Helena. Barbara replied, “Contact my VA. I’m sure she’ll help you like she’s helping me. Contact Sharon at sharon@The24HourSecretary.com, or visit www.The24HourSecretary.com and tell her Barbara referred you.” You can reach her by telephone at 410.521.7001.